Opinion: Projections over egress windows at window wells

Inquiry: 

98-45 

Subject: 

Projections over egress windows at window wells 

Code:

11994 UBC Sections 226 and 310.4  

Submitted By:

MN B. O. Uniformity Committee 

Approved By:

Thomas R. Joachim, State Building Official 

Issue Date: 

August 3, 1998 

Question:  

What minimum horizontal dimension can cantilevers, decks, etc. project over escape window wells? 

Answer:

Projections are not allowed that would restrict escape from window wells.  Section 310 states that escape windows shall exit directly into a public street, public alley, yard or exit court.  It should be noted that a yard is defined as an open space that is unobstructed from the ground to the sky.
 

Committee comments:

Obviously roof overhangs would project over a window well.  Therefore, judgment must be used in evaluating other related conditions until or unless the code is changed to provide additional clarification.

Adopted by committee November 20, 1997 and ratified with modification at the 42nd Annual Institute of Building Officials on January 16, 1998.